From 1993 to 2019, violent and property crime rates across the US have decreased by 49%. However, with the amount of tension and uncertainty across the country in 2020 and 2021, crime rates seem to have picked up again.
Whether you feel that the country is safer than ever, or that things are getting worse every day, it pays to have a few basic self-defense tools at their disposal.
One of the most important is a spray that would deter assailants and help them flee from harm. Tear gas vs. pepper spray, which one is right for you when it comes to basic self-defense?
Read our tear gas and pepper spray guide down below to learn the key difference and determine which one to buy right away.
What Is Pepper Spray?
The main ingredient in pepper spray, which causes the insane burning sensation, is naturally derived. It comes from the compound that makes spicy peppers so hot; capsaicin. Hence the term pepper spray.
A chemical process is used to dissolve the capsaicin from the peppers, turning it into a liquid. The final product of pepper spray comes in an aerosol can or liquid spray. The concentration of the compound capsaicin is much higher and stronger in pepper spray than in the chili peppers it comes from.
When it hits the eyes, it causes the eyes to shut, producing temporary blindness. This temporary deterrent often wears off naturally in less than an hour. No medical treatment is required.
You can buy pepper spray over the counter and online, at websites like https://urbansafetysolutions.com/ to use it as a self-defense mechanism. It’s not considered a weapon.
What Is Tear Gas?
Tear gas is made of artificial chemicals that mimic the compounds found in pepper spray. It’s most often used as a crowd control method during riots or protests. Rather than individual spray cans, those using tear gas often use grenades that disperse it over a wide area.
They also cause temporary irritation, wearing off after 30 to 60 minutes in most instances.
Tear gas can be made in a number of ways, but in general, is a weaponized form irritant to temporarily immobilize lots of people.
Tear Gas vs. Pepper Spray
Both pepper gas and tear gas are non-lethal irritants, design to cause immediate and severe burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and mouth. But they’re made from different chemicals and should be used in different situations.
Tear gas is most often used by law enforcement personnel during riots and protests, to control crowds and prevent things from getting any worse. While civilians can obtain tear gas, most will buy pepper spray instead.
Pepper spray is affordable and easy to keep on one’s person, to use against an assailant in the event of an assault, robbery, or violent crime. You can use it to escape the situation and contact law enforcement, without actually harming anyone.
Stay Safe Out There
Tear gas vs. pepper spray, now you understand the differences. Hopefully, our pepper spray and tear gas guide has helped inform you to make the right purchasing decision, to help you stay safe in a crazy world.
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